Mayday Statement

For Immediate Release
May 1, 2012

Capitalism Still Isn’t Working For Workers

Halifax, NS – The Halifax-Dartmouth & District Labour Council wishes the workers of the Halifax Regional Municipality a happy Mayday. May 1st is International Workers Day, a celebration of the working class and an opportunity to renew our commitment to building a better world for all.

“Mayday reminds us that a better world is possible. Today, around the world, millions of people will mobilize, rally, strike, make art, and demonstrate for a more just, equal, and compassionate society,” says Kelly Murphy, Executive Vice President of the Labour Council.

The recession that began in 2008 isn’t over. Employment levels have not recovered, and wages are stagnating. Workers and their families are feeling the squeeze.

But instead of making the big banks and corporations who crashed the economy in the first place fix it, government’s are using the Shock Doctrine to justify a dramatic transfer of wealth from the working class to the ruling class. Today in Canada, 61 billionaires own more wealth than double the bottom 17 million Canadians. Governments and employers are employing austerity capitalism and slashing wages, cutting services, raiding pension plans, conducting mass layoffs, and setting us backward in the struggle for pay equity.

In September 2008, the Labour Council voted unanimously to adopt the slogan “Capitalism Isn’t Working For Workers”. Today that slogan still rings true.

“Capitalism still isn’t working for workers,” says Kyle Buott, President of the Labour Council. “Only the eradication of capitalism, and its replacement with a democratic, Socialism-for-the-21-Century alternative can liberate the working class.”

The Labour Council, various affiliates, community organizations and Occupy Nova Scotia will hold a march and rally to, beginning at 12:00 noon at Grand Parade, in front of City Hall. The Labour Council also sponsors Mayworks! Halifax – A Festival of Working People and the Arts, and there are still some events left in this year’s calendar, a full list at www.MayworksHalifax.ca .

Happy Mayday from the 25,000 affiliated, unionized members of the Halifax-Dartmouth & District Labour Council.

Labour Council's "CAPITALISM isn't working for workers" T-Shirt is available for $15.00. (!) Union made quality shirt in a range of sizes. Get yours today.($5.00 shipping if necessary)
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Council Projects

MAYWORKS HALIFAX

Mayworks is a multi-disciplinary arts festival that is designed to bring workers and artists together – using art as a means to explore social and economic justice. The Labour Council is pleased to be making a foray into cultural work and to use culture as a political force, all year long.

SOLIDARIGLEE

Is ready. Every Tuesday, all voices welcome. Raise YOUR voice for justice. See events top of page for details. (formerly LABOUR CHOIR)